My 4 month old chocolate Lab is not happy in the car unless he is either sitting in the front seat or in the back with a bully stick. Even then he will bark or whine. He's manifested "Houdini" and somehow managed to get out of his harness. Please send any and all suggestions! I'd love for him to enjoy the car rides.
Welcome @Deborah Collins from Hattie 10 years and rescue boy Charlie 6 years. How long are you travelling with your puppy? Are your journey's to take him for walks/training?
Hi Deborah and welcome to the forum. You have two issues here: 1. Safety. You must ensure that your dog is secure when travelling in a car - both for his/her protection and also for you and any passengers. 2. Barking/whining. I would go back to basics. Start with getting your dog happy just being in the car (ie not actually going anywhere) - ask your dog to get in and reward success, then reward being calm and quiet while in the car (don't expect too much too quickly - gradually increase the time. Once you have this part cracked begin having short journeys and heavily reward quiet - ideally with an accomplice rewarding the dog while you are driving. Let us know how you get on
Trips are maybe 20 to 30 minutes. I take him with me to drop off and pick up my daughter, trips to the pet store etc
